Previous Year Question

This question refers to the original Vidyanjali programme launched in 2016. Its purpose was to improve the quality of education and co-scholastic activities in government elementary schools through the participation of volunteers from the community and private sector. Therefore, statement 2 is correct.

Statement 1 is incorrect. Vidyanjali had no connection with permitting foreign universities or educational institutions to establish campuses in India.

Statement 3 is incorrect. The original Vidyanjali programme did not seek monetary contributions from private individuals and organisations for school infrastructure. It was primarily a School Volunteer Programme based on voluntary services and non-financial participation.

The programme was launched by the then Ministry of Human Resource Development on 16 June 2016 under the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan. Through the programme, volunteers could assist government elementary schools in activities such as:

• Developing children’s reading and creative-writing abilities.

• Assisting in public speaking and communication skills.

• Conducting acting, theatre, music, dance and other co-scholastic activities.

• Preparing storybooks for children.

• Introducing students to local arts, crafts and practical skills.

A distinction must be maintained between the original Vidyanjali programme and the subsequently developed Vidyanjali 2.0. The later programme created provisions for contributions of assets, materials and equipment in addition to services, whereas the 2017 question concerned the original School Volunteer Programme.